Joseph Rempe

Joseph Rempe Age 85. Surrounded by his family Joseph Rempe, 85, of Novato, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 25, 2012. Joe is survived by Margaret his wife of 59 years, daughters Shelly Rempe, Mara Rempe (Matt Hajny), sons David Rempe (Tracy), Steve Rempe (Michele), grandchildren Joey Rempe, Rachel Craft (Bobby), Zac Rempe (Melanie), Katie Henkelman (Justin Kolbe), John Henkelman (Karolyn Marinas), his beloved great grandchildren, and many loving, nieces, nephews and extended family. He was preceded in death by his daughter Lissa Rempe (Jeff Henkelman). Born in Spalding, Nebraska, Joe spent most of his life in California. He served in the Navy during World War II and Korea as a medical corpsman on the hospital ship, the USS Consolation, later known as the S.S. HOPE. After the war he returned to Nebraska to graduate from Creighton University. Joe enjoyed a long career with State Compensation Insurance Fund, starting as a safety inspector and becoming regional sales manager for northern California prior to his retirement. In retirement Joe enjoyed walking, woodworking, science, astronomy and reading. Early in retirement he donated time to various nonprofit projects, helped teach scouts woodworking and the tricks to a successful pinewood derby car. He was an inspirational life-long learner, and mentor. Always quick with a limerick and a smile. A private memorial will be held at a future date with immediate family. Memorial donations may be made in Joe's name to MCF the Joseph & Margaret Rempe Fund, #5 Landing Way, Suite 200, Novato, CA 94949 or a charity of your choice .